The move to make Brian Mulroney chairman of the board could signal an attempt by Quebecor to put some distance between itself and Pierre Karl Peladeau.

Source: Toronto Star

The Globe and Mail says the company has disclosed in a corporate filing that Mulroney, 75, will be named board chairman at its annual meeting next month.

Pierre Karl Peladeau stepped down as chairman in March when he announced plans to enter politics. Mulroney is currently vice-chairman of the board and is still listed that way on the company’s website.

Peladeau was elected to the Quebec legislature in April and is considered a top candidate to take over the leadership of the Parti Quebecois.

The move could signal an attempt by Quebecor to put some distance between itself and Peladeau.

His political ambitions have been seen as hindering Quebecor’s efforts to expand its cellular business outside Quebec.

Mulroney is an ardent federalist and viewed as being able to smooth the way in Ottawa, which regulates the cellphone industry.